“No man is an island.” I’m sure this is a quote everyone has heard at least once in their lifetime. Of course, it is usually followed by an eye-roll. Clichés can suck, but it’s even worse when they’re actually true.

Being a self-proclaimed, and personality tested, introvert, am not a fan of crowds and/or conversation overall. I love that I live alone and that I have the space and freedom to live how I want to live. Unfortunately, we’ve established that I prefer solitude.

I can go days, maybe even a week, without voluntary interactions with other people. But where is the line between just being an introvert and displaying borderline depressive behavior?

It took missing weeks of classes and serious talks with two of my professors, for me to realize I had crossed that line.

It’s understandable to be busying in school or in life, but I’ve realized that shutting yourself out from others just adds more stress. I’m not saying that random conversations or polite small talk help. Honestly, it gives me anxiety even thinking about it. But, having a handful of people and friends that you are comfortable with is vital.

Around the same time as my academic intervention, I got to hang out with my mom and sisters after weeks of school and stress. I think that it’s made all the difference.

I might not see the point in light conversations, but even quick chats with my family make up for it all. Regardless of your personality, humans are a social species, which means that even those of us who can be silent for days still need some kind of social interaction.

Allowing yourself to have people to reach out to means that you have a way to communicate feelings you didn’t even know you were having. It’s easy to lose motivation when you only discuss your actions with yourself.

Friends and family provide a support you might’ve forgotten you needed. By actually voicing or telling them what I do or how I feel, I can process my decisions in a new way. It’s normal for people to ask other’s opinions when it comes to big decisions. So, why don’t we apply this idea in our everyday lives?

I don’t mean to say that you should base your decisions on what other people think, but opinions and different perspectives can help you gain a better insight. People are a kind of resource. They give you the love, support, help, and advice that you can’t give yourself.

Without the people around me, I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through this period. Being alone can be great, but it can also get to the point where you’re actively shutting out the world.

That is the line. When you tell yourself you just like to be alone, while simultaneously hindering yourself from enjoying life.

Remember to let people into your life, for their sake and for yours.